Final Report: Assessing Climate Variability and Adaptation Strategies for the Rio Grande Basin
Dates
Publication Date
2023-02-07
Citation
Final Report: Assessing Climate Variability and Adaptation Strategies for the Rio Grande Basin: .
Summary
The Rio Grande/Bravo (RGB) is a basin full of extreme climate conditions. The overall goal of this study was the estimation of climate variability on the southern branch of the RGB basin (from Presidio Texas to the outlet of the river in the Gulf of Mexico) and the characterization of the periods of drought and water abundance for 110 years [1900 – 2010]. This study focused on the natural streamflow variability as a proxy for climate variability, and for extreme drought and flood events. Specifically, on the estimation of daily natural water availability for the RGB along the border, comparing the long-term water availability with drought periods. This research aimed to help in the understanding of extreme climatic events and support [...]
Summary
The Rio Grande/Bravo (RGB) is a basin full of extreme climate conditions. The overall goal of this study was the estimation of climate variability on the southern branch of the RGB basin (from Presidio Texas to the outlet of the river in the Gulf of Mexico) and the characterization of the periods of drought and water abundance for 110 years [1900 – 2010]. This study focused on the natural streamflow variability as a proxy for climate variability, and for extreme drought and flood events. Specifically, on the estimation of daily natural water availability for the RGB along the border, comparing the long-term water availability with drought periods. This research aimed to help in the understanding of extreme climatic events and support the formulation of adaptation strategies relevant for agriculture, urban and rural communities, water management agencies, flood protection, and environmental restoration activities. The findings of this study present the role of climate variation over time was significant under natural conditions; however, its current human-centered water management use and regulations are the main drivers of floods patterns and the present anthropogenic megadrought that has lasted more than 100 years in the RGB. In addition, there is evidence that the basin is less resilient, the present anthropogenic megadrought impedes the natural fluctuation of wet and dry periods keeping the basin in a perennial and severe drought state. This report also provides management strategies of climate adaptation considering the flood and drought characterization of the RGB basin, as well as the prediction in the context of climate change. The results also included a communication campaign developed with stakeholders explaining results and adaptation strategies for public outreach.
